55 Things to Do in Swanage

The town flourished in the Victorian era as a small port and fishing village, before becoming a significant quarrying port and later a seaside resort. It’s only in recent history that it has been known as Swanage having previously been listed as Swanawic, Swanwich and Sandwich. Today it’s a dream to visit for tourists with everything from beaches and walks to a heritage railway and a distant culture. So if you’re thinking about taking a trip to Swanage, here are 55 of our best things to do! 

Set sail to Brownsea Island 

Located in the middle of Poole Harbour, Brownsea Island is every nature lover's dream. While you’re there you can bask in the beauty of its natural habitats, which include woodlands, heathland and a lagoon - the ideal home to an abundance of wildlife and creatures. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for red squirrels who are known residents on the island. You’ll also get to see a wide variety of birds and you might catch a peacock strutting around near the 19th-century church. 

The Island has seen many industries thrive within it including cattle farming, daffodil farming and pottery - with Pottery pier still surrounded with ceramics that were once crafted there. One of the most notable elements of the Island is that it’s the birthplace of the Scouting and Guiding Movement, so if you want to camp under the stars, it’s the ideal place for you. 

Get active at Cumulus outdoor adventure centre

If you’re looking for the perfect activity for the kids, then look no further than Cumulus Outdoor Adventure. With everything from climbing and fishing to coasteering and kayaking, there’s plenty of fun to be had. The enjoyable watery wonders of Cumulus take place on the scenic Jurassic coastline with an experienced and friendly team on-hand to make sure everything runs smoothly and the excitement levels remain high. 

Jurassic Coastal Circular Cruise for Two

All that adventure from Cumulus might not be your thing and you might want a more leisurely way to see Jurassic Coast - well we have a great offer for you! Our Jurassic Coastal Circular Cruise for Two embarks on a journey through 185 years’ worth of history as you take a peaceful ride through Poole Harbour along the eastern tip of the Jurassic Coastline and into Swanage and back. The trip includes stunning views of sea, sky and sand including the famed Old Harry’s Rock - and with live commentary provided by the captain, you’ll be fully clued up on the history and surroundings. 

Unleash your artistic nature at Andy Knill Art The Courtyard Studio

For all you art lovers and creatives out there, now is the best time to visit Swanage! Andy Knill opens up his own solo art studio in September 2021. A self-taught artist based in Purbeck, from November 2019 to August 2021 Andy started The Courtyard Studio - the epicentre of art in the heart of Swanage. Andy’s motto is ‘Art for Fun’ and encourages anyone to try their hand at art - so whether you’re a novice or pro - you’ll appreciate the studio. From postcards, art materials and decorative modern boxes to fine art, greeting cards and small canvases, all his creations use pen and ink  - so no matter what you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone. 

Watery wonders at Fore / Adventure

Ever wanted to experience the high seas up close? Well Fore / Adventure can cater for that desire. Whether you want a two hour taster session or even a three day expedition, Fore / Adventure provides activities for all ages and abilities. With adventures including kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, snorkelling, foraging, fishing, wild cooking, feasting, forest school, beach school, bushcraft, wild camping and mini expeditions - you might spend most of your trip there! 

All activities have the aim of giving you the chance to see nature in all its glory and appreciate the breath-taking sights of splendid Swanage. 

Sun, sea and sand at Swanage beach

With clean waters and a beach that’s won numerous European Blue Flag Awards and the Seaside Award, you can be sure that Swanage Beach provides you with sublime sea and sand - and hopefully some sun! The Beach provides deck chairs for hire, pedalos, kayaks and sun beds, so you can make the most of breathing in that fresh sea air and basking in the picturesque views. The resort gained popularity in 1885 after the opening of the railway and has maintained that popularity today. 

Enlighten yourself at Swanage Heritage Centre and Museum

Take a step back in time to discover how Swanage built its success on the Victorian stone industry with a trip to its Heritage Centre and Museum. Containing fascinating facts and information about the history, geology and geography of the town, the museum tells you everything you need to know about how Swanage went from a stone trade destination to the successful holiday resort we enjoy today. 

Choo choo choose Swanage Railway

All aboard and full steam ahead as you take a scenic and awe-inspiring trip on Swanage Railway. Located in the Isle of Purbeck, the heritage railway takes in the stunning views along Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. With steam locomotives and diesels, the five mile line takes you from Norden to Corfe Castle and down to Swanage. If you get peckish there are refreshment buffets at Norden and Swanage stations with picnic tables at most stations as well. 

If you’d like to step back into 1885 to experience the golden age of steam as well as taking a trip on a sea cruise while you’re there, our Sea Cruise and Steam Train Adventure for Two has you sorted. The cruise takes you on a glorious trip around the eastern tip of the Jurassic Coast, before disembarking at the Victorian seaside resort of Swanage where you can jump on the train and enjoy Swanage Railway.  

Breath-taking natural settings await at Durlston Country Park and National Nature Reserve

Situated a mile from Swanage, the captivating 320-acre Durlston Country Park offers your little slice of paradise on your trip. While you walk around the National Nature Reserve you’ll see sea-cliffs, haymeadows, coastal limestone, hedgerows and woodland making the trail perfect for all ramblers. You’ll also get to enjoy the historic Great Globe, magnificent geology and wonderful wildlife - while enjoying a nice cuppa in the Seventhwave Café & Restaurant after all that exploring.

Sail across the seas at Shell Bay Sailing Centre

Being located near the coast means Swanage is the ideal destination if you love to sail so why not visit the Shell Bay Sailing Centre, which is a small sailing school based near Poole Harbour.  As an RYA recognised training centre, it offers a range of courses and opportunities to hit the seas for ages eight years and up - so whether you’re with the kids or want to try something it out with friends or a loved one’s - it’s perfect for you. 

Historical gem of Durlston Castle 

Within Durlston Country Park, you’ll get to experience the marvellous Durlston Castle - which is a Victorian Building restored back in November 2011. Designed by Weymouth architect G.R. Crickmay and built by W.M. Hardy, it was built entirely from local stone - however, it was never a real castle, more a purpose-built restaurant for people visiting the estate of local Swanage businessman George Burt.

To immerse yourself in all its history, the castle includes interactive displays and exhibitions - and while you wander around it you’ll come across artwork which focuses on the four billion years of earth’s history, the species of Durlston and 200 sponsored engraved Purbeck limestone blocks.  

Catch of the day with Swanage sea fishing

There’s nothing fishy about our next activity to do! Swanage Fishing offers you the chance to climb on-board a fishing boat and head out into the open waters to experience one of the most relaxing pastimes. Some of the regular catches include Bream, Bass, Mackerel, Blonde & Undulate Rays, Tope, Pollock and Conger Eels and the trips welcome both novices and more experienced anglers. You won’t only have an abundance of fish to choose from, but you get to see the limestone cliffs, which are home to nesting seabirds including puffins, razor bills and peregrine falcons.  

Wheely wonderful cycling experience

If you want to move from experiencing Swanage on two feet, why not enjoy it on two wheels! See all the splendid sights and at the same time get some exercise with the Cycle Experience. Explore beaches, hills, woodland, parks and all the historical gems when you ride on either a mountain bike or electric bike. With access to a free GPS app providing routes from Norden to either Swanage, Studland or Kimmeridge, there are nine routes to discover for all ages and abilities with them ranging from 10 miles (1-2 hours) all the way to 24 miles (4-5 hours). 

Grab the wetsuit at Land & Wave

It’s not just the Shell Bay Sailing Centre that offers you the chance to hit the high seas, but Land & Wave is another alternative if you want to put on the wetsuit and try your hand at a whole host of activities on the water. No matter what your plans for your trip to the coast, you’ll be able to find something that meets your needs. If you’re visiting with friends you could try your hand at paddleboarding, coasteering, bushcraft or kayaking. You might be visiting with family, in which case the Kids Holiday Club is perfect. However, if you’re looking for a fun weekend away for a Stag or Hen Do or a Team Away Day, Land & Wave even has these options.

Follow in the arty footsteps on the Swanage seen art trail

With its picturesque coastline views, it’s no surprise Swanage has attracted artists from across the world - and the Swanage Seen Art Trail gives you a glimpse into these geniuses’ work. Including Walter Field, Charles Conder, Paul Nash, Mark Gertler, Augustus John and Graham Sutherland the walking trail takes you on a journey to see what inspired them all.

Picturesque Purbeck Way

At 15.5 miles (25km), the Purbeck Way trail is your ticket to seeing everything stunning about Swanage. The walk takes in the scenic town of Wareham, which is surrounded by the Saxon Wareham Walls, before passing by the charming landscape across Stoborough Heath and Creech Heath. From there you’ll head to the marvellous Corfe Castle and head down to the chalk ridge of Ballard Down across Poole Harbour concluding at Old Harry Rock and Swanage. 

All the fun of Swanage Beach Gardens

Step up onto the tee or hit an ace with the Sports Park within Beach Gardens. Established in 1930, the Sports Park offers visitors an opportunity to unleash their sporty self with an 18 hole putting green, bowling green, tennis courts and a basketball court - and with all the equipment being able to be hired, you won’t have to worry about bringing anything with you. After all that workout you can enjoy light refreshments and ice creams at the ‘Tea on the Green’. 

Swing into action at the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club

The Beach Gardens isn’t the only place to show off your golfing prowess and if you can’t get enough of swinging those balls then Isle of Purbeck Golf Club will provide you with hours of down time. Founded in 1892, the Isle of Purbeck Golf Club offers two courses, which showcase all the glorious views of Poole. The courses are built on heathland and set within a nature reserve, so you know you’re playing somewhere special. 

Scenic stunning Swanage Pier

The first Swanage Pier was built between 1859 and 1860 primarily for shipping stone, before the current pier was built in 1895. Swanage Pier is the go-to place to see some of the most scenic views across the coastline. The Victorian heritage of the 642.5 feet (195.8 m) pier really comes out as you walk along it. Situated at the eastern end of Dorset’s World Heritage Jurassic Coast, the pier illuminates the coastline and still continues to be the hub for mooring of historical sailing ships. It’s not just a great destination for a stroll, but Swanage Pier is also an important centre for sub-aqua diving, angling and water sports. While you’re walking along it, why not stop off at the 1859 Pier Cafe & Bistro for a bite to eat. 

The Swanage Pier Trust has controlled the pier’s maintenance since 1994 - but needs to raise £200,000 each year just to cover its costs. 

Add colour to your day with the Swanage Beach Huts

If you want to spend a lovely sunny Swanage day on the beach then you’ll definitely need a beach hut! These historic looking multi-coloured huts provide a true rainbow to the Swanage coast and are equipped with a table, four chairs with perfect views across the sea. The Huts enable you to store your towels, swimsuits and toys without having to worry about leaving them on the beach. If you have children or grandchildren, then the Shore Road Beach Hut is ideal for you. 

Wonderful walks with WALX  

The best way to explore anywhere is always on foot and with WALX this is definitely the case. Offering over 40 walks, WALX Dorset is a friendly group of ramblers who provide you with the best chance to see the county’s woodlands, parks and nature. With a team of walking guides and instructors you’ll be in store for a day filled with fun, fitness and fantastic views. 

Relax and take it easy at The Burlington Health Spa and Fitness Club

In need of a spot of TLC? Then escape to The Burlington Health Spa and Fitness Club. Located on the ground floor of the Grand Hotel it offers breath-taking views across Swanage Bay, so you can relax in style. Including a heated indoor plunge pool, sauna, jacuzzi and gymnasium you can treat yourself to the best experience possible and ensure you recharge those batteries on your trip. 

Sublime strolls along Smugglers Way

A trip away can sometimes feel like you aren’t getting out for a spot of exercise, then the Smugglers Way walk can help you get in a brisk morning or evening stroll. The 3 mile (5km) circular walking trail takes you from Worth Matravers to Winspit Quarry and along Seacombe. The walk includes sea cliff views and means you can follow in the footsteps of what life as a smuggler was like in 1790. 

Rock ‘n’ roll with Old Harry Rocks

To truly experience all the wonders of the coastline then visiting Old Harry Rocks is something you can’t miss out on. Dominating the coastline at Handfast Point on the southern end of Studland Bay, the chalk formations gained the name Old Harry after referring to a single stack of chalk standing furthest out to sea. Up until 1896 there was also an Old Harry’s Wife, which was another stack of chalk - although erosion caused it to fade away into the sea leaving just a stump. Over a 1,000 years ago Old Harry and The Needles (another chalk rock) on the Isle of Wight were linked by a line of chalk that had eroded in the last Ice Age. 

There’s no concrete answer as to where the Old Harry name derived from, but it’s either a famous local pirate (Harry Paye) or the devil! The top of the cliff is known as Old Nick’s Ground, which was also a devil. The route around Old Harry is perfect for walking or cycling.

Walk through the quarrying era  

If the Smugglers Way walk inspires you to see more of Swanage, then you can join the Quarrymans Way walk. The 1.5 mile (2.5km) route is a short, circular trail starting in Acton near Swanage and provides you with views of the old quarries, so you can get a glimpse of what Purbeck looked like over 100 years ago. 

Cute Commoners' Ways

Smugglers Way and Quarrymans Way aren’t the only walks you can enjoy as there’s also the Commoners’ Way trail, which starts and finishes in the village of Kingston - and is the longest of the three at 5.5 miles (9km) taking in scenic views near Corfe Castle Village.

Discover The Woodland Clan Activity Trail

Join the “beak, bone, feather and song”  and help save Purbeck’s wildlife from destruction by the ‘Bigfoots’ by joining The Woodland Clan Activity Trail. Based on the book ‘The Woodland Clan’ by Annie Herridge, this enlightening trail gives you the wisdom of the animals through sculptures, activities, quizzes, storytelling and prizes. Ideal for families, the trail discovers the magical natural wonders of Purbeck and enables children to explore the story through a fun activity book. 

Follow in the Spyway Dinosaur Footprints

Here’s a dino-mite way to spend the day with the Spyway Dinosaur Footprints fossils. Follow in the footprints of more than 100 fossilised dinosaur tracks that have been preserved in a flat layer of rock in a quarry near Langton Matravers. Dating back 140 million years when the area was covered in tropical forests and swamps, it’s believed the fossils came from giant sauropods like Brachiosaurus. Amazingly the fossils were only discovered back in 1997 by quarrymen Kevin Keates and Trev Haysom when the quarry was still in working use. Since 2016 they’ve been opened to the public with plenty of information on the stories behind them. 

Try your hand at the Burngate Stone Carving Centre 

Unleash your creative juices at the Burngate Stone Carving Centre and learn how to carve stones. Located in the Isle of Purbeck on the world famous Jurassic Coast, the Centre offers many activities for children and families including a range of art and craft courses, sculpture exhibitions, local art and crafts for sale as well as a tea room. The courses are perfect for everyone from novices to more advanced stone carvers. 

Jurassic Jaunts

The best way to discover the Jurassic Coast is on foot and you can explore it with tours, walks and talks on your trip to the coast. The World Heritage Site is a must-see and provides stunning views far and wide and enlightens you with plenty of historical significance. 

Conquer Corfe Castle

Standing tall near Purbeck Hills sits the stunning ruins of Corfe Castle, which is located south of Purbeck where the Purbeck marble was once quarried. The first stone of Corfe Castle was laid out more than 1,000 years ago and since then it has been a treasury, military garrison, royal residence and family home. It was built in the early 12th century for King Henry I who was William the Conqueror’s son, so you can immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring architecture that has great history.

Step back in time with antiques shopping

If you love your second-hand crafts or antiques, then Swanage has plenty of hidden gems for you to discover. If you’re after a range of different items then check out the following antique shops: Eklektika, The Old Forge Antiques, Old Harry’s Locker and The Swanage Bookshop.

Visit the Home of Chococo

Love chocolate? Then indulge yourself with a visit to Chococo! The Swanage chocolate house is open 7 days a week and you can take your pick from a delectable range of fresh chocolates and goodies to cater for your sweet tooth! 

Take a trip to Putlake Adventure Farm 

A barrr-illiant and moo-vellous way to spend a day with the kids is to take a trip to Putlake Adventure Farm. Ideal for children under 10 years, the real working farm with animals, tractor rides, pedal go-karts, a pet centre and much more will provide your little one’s with hours of entertainment. If the weather takes a turn for the worse, then you can hop inside to enjoy the soft play area, slides and ball pits.

Become a detective at Poole Mystery Treasure Trail

Take out your magnifying glass and unleash your inner Sherlock to go for gold on the Poole Mystery Treasure Trail. The themed walking Treasure Trail can be done in your own time and lasts around an hour and a half - and gives the chance to win some real treasure! 

More things to do in Swanage

Food Activities in Swanage

If all that isn’t enough for you, here are a few of the best places to grab a bite to eat. 

• Tuck into a Tandoori: Offering Indian, Asian, Balti, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Westbourne Tandoori is an award-winning restaurant that’s known as having the best Indian Food in Dorset!
• Take a break at Java Independent Coffee House: For all your breakfast, brunch and lunch needs, Java Independent Coffee House can be your food stop before you embark on a day of adventures. 
• Indulge in pizza and burgers: There aren’t many better combos than pizza and burgers and you know you’re going to taste something special when that’s all that’s on the menu - and Swanage Pizza & Burgers offers just that. 
• Delve into delicious variety: Bliss Food doesn’t just have a blissful atmosphere, but caters to those who enjoy food that’s vegetarian, vegan, gluten and dairy-free diets as well as for those who enjoy a hearty British / fusion, meat or fish dish.
•  A nice slice: For heavenly desserts, cakes, brownies and ice creams, then take a trip to Love Cake Cafe - Swanage's first Cafe-Deli-Cake Emporium.
• Dine out in style: Chilled Red is a warm and welcoming restaurant offering you seafood as well as European and British cuisine, so you can try out some seafood while you’re at the coast! 
• Eat with a stunning view: If you want to enjoy your meal with a beach view across the coastline, then The Cabin is right for you. A Beach Cafe & Bar, it offers a wide selection of hot and cold food, with their speciality being their seafood.
•  Perfect pub grub: The Black Swan Inn is a grade 2 listed building located in the heart of the Purbeck countryside and near to the beautiful World Heritage Jurassic Coastline - and will provide you with a vibrant atmosphere. 
• Countryside cuisine: Located on the Durlston peninsular, Seventhwave offers contemporary dining with far reaching views towards Swanage Bay, The Isle of Wight and Old Harry Rocks.

• Winey wonders: For an evening of sumptuous wine in a popular, entertaining and comfortable atmosphere, Tawny’s is the best place to be.
• Stunning seafood settings: The Shell Bay Seafood restaurant provides a setting like no other as it’s nestled on the edge of Isle of Purbeck with a glorious view of Brownsea island, Poole Harbour and Sandbanks. 
• Meat your match: Offering tasty meat The Salt Pig is an urban farm shop, butchery and cafe serving food from the local area. 
• Gee-whizz what food: Providing an al fresco dining experience with beautiful bay views, Gee Whites visitors can dine in style overlooking scenic Swanage.  
• Nothing fishy about this plaice: Located near to the quayside in Swanage, The Fish Plaice has been a fish and chip shop from at least the late 1970s enabling you to eat a British classic in classic beach surroundings. 
•  Raise a pint: If all the walking and exploring makes you thirsty, then The Kings Arms offers a variety of beers and ciders, both local and from across the world. 
• A taste of Italy: For all the pizza and pasta lovers out there, La Trattoria’s authentic and traditional Italian cuisine is a great dinner choice
• Wine and dine in a historic gem: Described as a country inn by the sea, The Bankes Arms Inn dates back to 1549 and is situated in an estate owned by the Bankes family who also owned Corfe Castle and Kingston Lacey.  
• Castaway to lovely food: Castaway’s provides food that’s all freshly prepared daily and is classic home cooked food at affordable prices.
• Tea-riffic room: For a cute vintage afternoon tea experience, Worth Matravers Tea and Supper Room is a number one choice. 
•  Spice up your life: Hurry to Nihal Spice for a tasty curry! Offering Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine, your taste buds will be in for a treat. 

FAQs

Why is Swanage Bay so popular with tourists?

With stunning coastline views, Swanage Bay is an ideal spot for tourists to enjoy sandy beaches, scenic settings and breath-taking cliff surroundings. Set in the heart of delightful Dorset, while you’re in Swanage Bay you can enjoy everything from Corfe Castle, Jurassic Coast and Brownsea Island. 

Is Swanage good for kids?

Swanage is the ideal place to take the kids with activities ranging from Swanage Railway and sandy beaches to climbing, fishing, coasteering and kayaking.